Set boundaries and find freedom from toxic relationships from a Relationship Coach
It seems like everyone is dealing with toxic relationships these days. They can show up anywhere — at work, in your family, among friends, or within romantic partnerships. No matter the source, they can create high levels of anxiety and stress.
So how do we deal with toxic relationships?
First, let’s look at the signs. Toxic relationships can be tricky to identify because sometimes being with that person feels good — yet other times you feel undermined, unsupported, gaslighted, unheard, criticized, controlled, drained, anxious, or disrespected.
Of course, no one is perfect — we all have bad days. But when these types of interactions become consistent, it’s important to take a closer look.
Remember: things change when we change.
A toxic relationship is any connection — romantic, family, friendship, or professional — that consistently drains your energy, undermines your self-worth, or prevents you from thriving. Instead of mutual respect, support, and growth, the dynamic becomes one-sided, manipulative, or emotionally harmful.
And it’s not your fault. Too often, we take on the blame when the truth is — toxicity belongs to the other person, not you.
I once dealt with a toxic boss. I was working for a retreat company as a healing practitioner, and my boss constantly gaslighted me. It was difficult to believe — after all, it was supposed to be a transformative company.
I kept trying to communicate how I felt and what I needed, but she ignored me and even criticized me. Even though I loved contributing and helping people, staying began to cost me my peace of mind. Finally, I gave notice and walked away. Ending it wasn’t easy, but sometimes that’s exactly what you have to do.
Here are some steps to take your power back.
The first step is to recognize the signs and have awareness. Take a moment and think about this person and how do you feel around them? What kind of emotions come up and how does your body feel? Very important to tune in and don't ignore this. You could journal about your feelings and emotions and next to each feeling and emotion state what you need. It is good to get this on paper and reflect about it.
The next step would be to communicate your feelings and what you need. This is called boundaries and they are your protection.
Of course, you can't fix them and they may not change. You can only express how you feel and what you need. If they are not willing to meet you there, then you have your answer with them willing to change.
It is important to focus on what makes you happy and practice self love for yourself by surrounding yourself around people that are supportive and lift you up. Also, do things that make you happy like being in nature, doing your favorite hobby, and/or just relaxing like reading.
Sometimes the healthiest choice is creating distance. This might mean reducing interaction, going “low contact,” or, in some cases, walking away entirely.
Leaving or shifting a toxic dynamic can stir guilt, grief, or self-doubt. Healing takes time. Focus on rediscovering your joy, building healthier connections, and learning from the experience — without self-blame.
A toxic relationship doesn’t define you. It’s simply a mirror showing where you can strengthen boundaries, honor your truth, and choose environments that reflect your value. The power lies in realizing that you get to choose what relationships you allow into your life.
And in case you’re wondering how I got your email in the first place, you signed up for my free relationship advice either through an online summit or facebook.
Keep your eyes peeled for next week’s email where I share my best tip on how to release the guilt, shame, and disempowered in being a toxic relationship.
I always love hearing from you,
Kim Quick
Transformational Life Coach
www.kimquickcoaching.com
www.natureandnurtureretreats.com
